The SFF PC

Put simply, a computer consists of many different components that are located inside and outside of the computer case. These components are referred to as the “hardware”.

Each separate hardware component assumes an important function in the overall performance of the machine. In order to obtain optimum use of the SFF PC, it is worth becoming familiar with the main components and their functions. This also includes their maintenance. Becoming familiar with how your SFF PC works enables you to get the most out of your PC.
 

This part of the guide details the following essential components:

• Mouse
• Keyboard
• Monitor (Screen)
• Drives (CD, DVD etc)
• Disk Drive
• Card Reader
• Case
• Speaker
• Network Card

Mouse

The mouse is one of the most important aids with regard to operating your SFF PC. It allows you to move the mouse cursor, usually symbolized as a little arrow, across the screen, which enables you to click on internet links and open programs (for example Media Center) and folders. You also have the ability to work with menus and text. The standard mouse has three buttons:

Left Button

You use this button the most often. You can select an object by clicking it once or move the cursor to a specific place in a text. Double-clicking (clicking twice in rapid succession) is used to open programs or documents.

Right Button

Clicking the right button once on an object or at any given location in the screen opens a relevant (or context-sensitive) shortcut menu. These menus provide you with quick access to frequently used functions such a cut and paste.

Scroll Wheel

The scroll wheel on the mouse functions differently depending on the application you are using at the time. In an internet browser for example, you can scroll upwards and downwards through a documents for ease of browsing. In some graphics software packages it can be used to zoom in and out of an image.

Application

Cut and Paste?

A very useful function, you can cut and paste text or execute other shortcuts using the mouse. Point the mouse cursor at an object, press the left button and hold it down. Now move the mouse to a different location and release the mouse button, as if you were picking up the object from one place and dropping it at another.

Cleaning

It is important to keep the mouse clean in order to achieve optimum functionality. Use a clean piece of cloth with polish to clean the exterior of the mouse. If your mouse contains a ball (visible on the underneath), be sure to clean the ball on a regular basis, as dust etc can accumulate and hinder the smooth function of your mouse. It is also recommended that you clean the rollers inside the mouse from time to time with a slightly damp piece of cotton wool.

Keyboard

In addition to the mouse, the keyboard is the most important tool for communicating with your SFF PC. The keyboard allows you to enter text into the PC, for instance when writing a letter or email.

Many modern keyboards also have “hot keys” or “quick keys”, these allow you to swiftly open your favourite Internet pages or start frequently used programs. Some of these buttons may also allow you to control the playback of music and films.

Application

How do I use keyboard shortcuts?

Keyboard shortcuts are key combinations of keys that allow you to access frequently used functions. For example, if you press CTRL and C at the same time, you can copy a highlighted text or object while pressing CTRL and V at the same time allows you to paste the contents to a different location. You can find additional shortcuts in Windows Help which can be found by clicking on ‘Start’ on your desktop with your mouse and then clicking on ‘Help and Support’ in the menu.

Monitor

The monitor is used to visualise your work and play on the computer and is often referred to as the “screen” or “display”. There are two types of monitors.

CRT Monitors

These are still the most frequently used type of monitors with PCs. Their disadvantage is their weight, size and electricity consumption.

TFT Displays

These are also referred to as flat screens. They require less energy and offer a clearer image. TFTs are ideal where space is limited and they are also portable, many carry cases are now available.

Cleaning

How and why should I clean my monitor?

You should clean your monitor to avoid unnecessary strain on your eyes. Be especially careful in cleaning monitors with a special surface. To do this, use specialist cleaner or tissue. Never use household cleaning agents. Never spray agents directly onto the monitor, spray on clean tissue first.

Drives

“Optical drives” are all drives that read media using a laser. Optical drives are used in most modern computers. These include:

*CD-ROM

*DVD-ROM

CD writer

DVD writer

Application

How do I load data from a CD?

You normally press the “Eject” button on the CD or DVD player. This opens the disk tray. Place the disk on the tray with the label side upwards. If you press the “Eject” button again or lightly press against the tray, it will close. Most CDs start automatically using the Windows ‘autostart’ function.

Cleaning

Special CD/DVD cleaners are available. These gently clean the lens inside the drive as these can become soiled over time and therefore impair the drives ability to read CDs or DVDs.

Card Readers

Card readers are a fairly new development in computers and are a great alternative to disk drives. Card readers can read various formats and are used for electronic storage such as digital cameras, PDAs, mobile telephones and many more.

You can purchase cards with memory capacities of between 4MB and 4GB.

Your SFF PC card reader supports the following formats:

• Compact Flash (CF type I and II)
• IBM Microdrive (MD)
• Secure Digital Card (SD)
• 3.3 V Smart Media Card (SM)
• Multimedia Card (MMC)
• Memory Stick (MS)

Disk Drive

Flat disk drives are a standard component in computers. When they were introduced, they provided a simple means of transferring files from one computer to another. However in the digital age, most files are larger than the maximum 1.44 MB capacity available on a diskette. As a result, card readers and CD/DVD writers are taking over this area of the market.

Application

How do I use a diskette?

With the label upwards, insert the diskette into the drive until you hear a click. Press the button on the drive to remove the diskette again. Do not remove the diskette while the drive indicator light is on. This can destroy the diskette.

Case

With its many connectors and functions, the case is the main part of your ShoeBox SFF PC and it contains all the components that allow the computer to function as a full unit. At the front of the case you will find the CD and DVD drives, the disk drive, the On switch, the card reader, firewire (specific models only) and USB connectors.

Speakers

The computers speakers allow you to hear music, games, videos and DVD films. Depending on your sound card, you can listen to 2 channel, 4 channel, 8 channel audio or 5.1 or7.1 surround sound.

Network (LAN)

The LAN or network connector allows you to connect your computer to a network at home in your office, so that you can exchange data with other computers or over the Internet.

Windows XP Help and Support Center

Always be aware that the “Help” function is always available fo you whenever you require answers to your questions or when you have problems with Windows XP or your computers.

You can find Help as follows:

* Press the F1 key when you are on the Desktop

* Press the “Start” key and choose “Help”